Henin-Hardenne powers past Clijsters

8 June 2006

BRUSSELS — The all-Belgian semi-final at Roland Garros turned into a cakewalk for Justine Henin-Hardenne on Thursday as she crushed compatriot Kim Clijsters in straight sets 6-3 6-2.

Defending her French Open title, Henin-Hardenne will meet Svetlana Kuznetsova in Saturday’s final

Thursday’s semi was evenly fought until Henin-Hardenne broke to take a 5-3 lead in the first set. After that, the second seed Clijsters only managed to win two of the last eight games.

“I think she is by far the best clay-court player,” Clijsters said of Henin-Hardenne. “The difference between her and the other players is that she moves so well, not that she hits harder.”

Clijsters’ defeat meant she missed out on the chance to replace France’s Amelie Mauresmo as world number one when the rankings come out next week

Henin-Hardenne is now aiming to win back-to-back French Open titles. She also won the title in 2003. The 5th seed will be hot favourite to beat 8th seed and hardcourt specialist Kuznetsova.

“I just tried to put the maximum amount of pressure on from the start. I did not tremble at the key moments. I forced her into rallies and I know she does not like that,” Henin-Hardenne said.

“Now I really have to stay focused because there is another big match on Saturday. It’s quite something as I can win my third Roland Garros.”

Subject: Belgian news